With an ever growing demand for African mounts, taxidermists must be prepared to mount some of the more difficult species. A cape buffalo tops the list, presenting some unique challenges not only because of its size, but the character that it exudes in its menacing facial expression. Simply hanging a hide on a mannikin can leave a lot to be desired. Certainly the condition of the cape and the choice of mannikin will play a large role in the final outcome of the mount. A considerable amount of gamehead mounting experience would be beneficial as well. This article will address some of the specific concerns unique to a cape buffalo. Some of the special areas of interest are: (1) proper horn fumigation and set up; (2) shape of the ears and earbutts; (3) eye-setting and its relationship to the lacrimal crease; (4) wrinkles where wrinkles should be; (5) boss reconstruction and finish work; (6) form preparation. As this title implies, how you prepare the form will have a lot to do with how difficult it will be to mount a buffalo. A little extra time spent before the skin goes on the mannikin can make the actual mounting relatively simple.

TO RENEW OR SUBSCRIBE TO BREAKTHROUGH, visit www.breakthroughmagazine.com or call (985) 345-7266.

In this second reference study on waterbucks I have a new collection of reference from several sources.The main source will feature many of the photos taken by Texas taxidermist Chip Johnston on his safaris to Africa. Like me, he has a passion for wildlife photography and Chip has sent me over 2,000 photos he has taken to share in Breakthrough. Many of his cape buffalo photos were used in the recent study in Issue 150. Waterbucks are more water-dependent than domestic cattle, and must remain close to a water source. This habitat furnishes waterbucks with a year-round source of food. Mainly grazers, they consume types of coarse grass seldom eaten by other grazing animals and occasionally browse leaves from certain trees and bushes. They feed in the mornings and at night, and rest and ruminate the remainder of the time.

TO RENEW OR SUBSCRIBE, visit www.breakthroughmagazine.com or call (985) 345-7266.

Harlequin ducks are small sea ducks. In North America they are also known as “lords and ladies.” Other names include painted ducks, totem-pole ducks, rock ducks, glacier ducks, mountain ducks, white-eyed divers, squeakers, and blue streaks. Adult breeding males have a colorful and complex plumage pattern. Their bills are blue-grey and their eyes are reddish. Adult females are less colorful, with brownish-grey plumage with three white patches on their heads: a round spot behind the eye, a larger patch from the eye to the bill, and a small spot above the eye.

TO RENEW OR SUBSCRIBE, visit www.breakthroughmagazine.com or call (985) 345-7266.